WHO: New strains of the virus have been reported outside the UK.

Outside the UK, nine cases of human infection with a new strain of the virus have been reported in Denmark; one case each in the Netherlands and Australia, according to the WHO.

“Across Europe, where [virusas] widespread and intensive, countries need to strengthen their prevention and control methods, “said a spokeswoman for the WHO European Chapter.

The United Nations agency also called on its members around the world to “expand the sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 viruses as much as possible and to publish the data obtained, especially when the same concerning mutations are found.” the spokeswoman said.

Several European countries decided on Sunday to suspend all flights from Britain, where an “uncontrolled” spread of a new strain of coronavirus was detected.

The WHO noted “preliminary indications that the virus may spread more easily in humans” and “preliminary information” that the strain may affect the parameters of some diagnostic tests.

The WHO has no evidence that the new virus strain causes a different severity of the disease, but “it is also being studied.”

Eurostar stops trains

Eurostar trains between London, Brussels and Amsterdam have been suspended since Monday after the Belgian government announced that the borders with the United Kingdom would be closed at midnight on Sunday.

The high-speed train operator announced on Sunday that trains will continue to run between London and Paris.

The Belgian government has announced that it will review the order banning flights and trains from the UK after 24 hours. Eurostar said it was waiting for more details from governments on the application of travel restrictions.

European countries, including the Netherlands, Austria and Italy, announced Sunday that they would suspend flights from the UK. A few hours earlier, the British government had introduced strict new quarantine measures across much of southern England to stop the spread of a new, more contagious strain of the virus.

The British can be cut off from the EU

The German government, according to the German daily Bild, wants to completely stop travel from Britain to Europe due to the new strain of coronavirus. This measure would take effect the next midnight. Then, at the beginning of January 6, all flights from Britain would be banned, the newspaper writes, citing government sources. Trains and ferries may not run later.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel will speak by phone with French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday to launch a campaign across Europe. It is said that it is necessary to close the door to the virus. Germany currently holds the presidency of the EU.

The reason for this initiative is the detection of a new strain of coronavirus in southeast England, which, according to initial data, is more contagious than current variants of the virus.